Opioid-related beliefs and prescription modalities for postoperative pain of Dutch and American physicians

Olivia Ac Lamers, Kai Kuck, Akiko Okifuji, Ami R Stuart, Ken B Johnson, Mienke Rijsdijk

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Aim: Opioid consumption and addiction are increasing worldwide, yet the USA stands out for its high addiction rates and opioid-related deaths. Considering that patient characteristics are comparable across western countries, physicians' prescribing modalities may influence opioid consumption. We conducted a pilot study to examine opioid-related beliefs and prescription habits of Dutch and American physicians. Methods & materials: A survey was administered to 488 physicians who routinely prescribe opioids for postoperative pain. Results: A total of 75 (16%) physicians responded to the survey. When deciding to prescribe opioids, Dutch physicians adopted a patient-guided approach, whereas most American doctors followed strict guidelines and protocols. Conclusion: This study identified significant differences between Dutch and American physicians' attitudes and prescribing modalities.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)239-250
Number of pages12
JournalPain Management Nursing
Volume9
Issue number3
Early online date29 May 2019
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2019

Keywords

  • addiction
  • opioid prescription
  • opioids
  • pain management
  • physician survey
  • postoperative pain

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